An algorithmic approach to linear systems

This article treats the solution of linear algebraic equations as a typical subject for a mathematical laboratory. Following a brief description of such a laboratory, equipped with a set of microcomputers, an algorithm for solving linear systems is presented. No knowledge of matrices, vectors and the underlying theory is assumed. Pedagogical considerations guided the choice of material, style and level of presentation, while emphasizing the learning process in a mathematical laboratory environment. Special attention is given to possible loss of accuracy, sensitivity to minor changes in the data, pivoting, pre-scaling and computational efficiency. Since the laboratory participants are introduced to these concepts without using matrix theory, the laboratory sessions can be carried out even before the study of linear algebra.